Strokosch could be out for the season

Scotland flank Alasdair Strokosch could miss the rest of the Six Nations with a fractured hand.

The 28-year-old suffered the injury during Scotland's 13-27 loss to Wales in Cardiff on Sunday and, in a statement issued by the Scottish Rugby Union, team doctor James Robson said: "Recovery from such an injury takes typically between four to six weeks."

The Six Nations is due to end on March 17, when Scotland are away to Italy.

Strokosch, who won his 25th cap against Wales, was replaced at the Millennium Stadium by John Barclay, who could now start in the back row against France at Murrayfield on February 26.

Meanwhile Scotland were also waiting on news over wing Max Evans, who went off early against Wales with an ankle injury.

"Max will be seen by the specialist ankle surgeon John McKinley at Spire Murrayfield Hospital today and we will await a further update later this week," Robson added.

Back row David Denton (foot) and prop Ed Kalman (neck) also needed medical attention after the Wales game and will be monitored ahead of the France clash.

Sunday's defeat was Scotland's fourth straight loss in all competitions and their second in as many Six Nations matches this term, following the 13-6 reverse against England at Murrayfield.

Scotland have now lost nine of their 12 Six Nations matches under Andy Robinson, the former England coach.

The Scots now face yet another battle to avoid the wooden spoon and they next play World Cup finalists France, a team they've beaten just once in their last 12 Six Nations matches.

AFP